With Chelsea out of the EFL Cup, the FA Cup is quickly becoming a very important competition for Antonio Conte…

Of course, the Blues are still flying high in the Premier League, but given the rich history that Chelsea have with the FA Cup – a decent run in England’s most historic competition will be expected of Antonio Conte.

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A win against Peterborough came in the last round, with the Blues running out 4-1 winners against the Football League side. Next up is a tough game against Brentford, in a clash that the Blues will be expected to win – and win comfortably.

With regards to team news, Antonio Conte has a fully fit squad to choose from, with no major injuries currently halting the Blues’ momentum.

You can expect the Italian to utilise much of that squad, too, with a fully rotated side expected to be put in place by the Chelsea boss. With such a tough run of fixtures coming, Conte will want to rest some of his key players, meaning that you can expect a few youngsters to feature.

With that said, this is the 3-4-3 XI that Conte must pick to smash Brentford…

GK – Asmir Begovic

Asmir Begovic has been limited to be a bit-part role so far this season, but he can expect to be given a chance in the FA Cup.

He has been solid lately when called upon, so you can expect another good performance.

CB –  John Terry

John Terry had a game to forget in the last round, but he’ll be wanting to make amends this time around.

He needs to impress.

CB – David Luiz

David Luiz has looked better over the last few weeks, and needs to keep that form up.

He’ll be the only regular in this back line.

CB – Kurt Zouma

Kurt Zouma is a near certain starter, with the Frenchman now back fit once again.

He’ll want to start forcing his way back into the first team more regularly going forward.

LWB – Nathan Ake

Nathan Ake has been recalled by the Blues, and you would expect him to get a chance in the FA Cup.

He has looked very good this season, and will want to keep his form up.

DM – Nathaniel Chalobah

Nathaniel Chalobah is another player that is close to making the jump into the first team on a regular basis, but he’ll need to keep impressing.

The Englishman will need to defend well.

DM – Cesc Fabregas

Cesc Fabregas is always reliable.

He’ll put in a shift.

RWB – Ola Aina

Ola Aina looked good in pre-season, though he has been given less of a chance as the season has progressed.

Victor Moses needs a rest.

 LF – Willian

Playing slightly narrower, Willian will get a chance from the start.

The Brazilian has looked good when given a chance this season.

 ST – Michy Batshuayi

Michy Batshuayi has hardly been considered by Antonio Conte this season, but will likely get a chance to lead the line.

He needs to keep scoring as he looks to force his way into the plans of the Italian.

 RF – Ruben Loftus-Cheek

Ruben Loftus-Cheek is not a natural winger, so will need to stay central and drive towards goal.

He needs to impress and take up the role that Oscar has left behind.

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